Please join us in congratulating Judy MacKay on being SHLC’s March 2023 Learner of the Month.
Judy was nominated by her mentor, Linda. Here is an excerpt of what Linda submitted to us about Judy.
Over the last few years, I have been fortunate to mentor several people who I consider Lifelong Learners. Some are people who have taken a new interest in learning and are interested in learning more about their culture in particular.
GLA has expanded their development of Indigenous cultural content courses and it has attracted many learners both within and outside their cultural roots. Others are looking for general subject area courses. Many of them are over 50 or 60, have worked for most of their lives and are retired. With more time on their hands, they are interested in new areas, especially technology and keeping up with the latest in tech programs like Gmail, Google Slides, Spreadsheets and Social Media. I admire the fact that these learners want to stay mentally active, pursue their interests and new areas now that they have the time. They are truly Lifelong learners!
Judy MacKay is one such learner. She has been my mentee since May, 2021. In her time at GLA, she has completed 26 courses in 2021, 10 courses in 2022 and is enrolled in 2 more courses this year already. The fact that she has adapted to our changing classroom platforms from Adobe Connect to Big Blue Button, is equally laudable as we have made changes over the last few years. Judy is a steadfast worker and great communicator who always keeps in touch and replies to my check-in emails.
I commend her for her continued interest in lifelong learning and applaud her accomplishments in completing almost 40 courses in the last 2 years! For all these reasons, I believe her efforts should be rewarded and recommend her as a candidate for Learner of the Month for March 2023.
We decided to ask Judy some questions so we could share more about her story with you.
How did you first hear about online learning with Good Learning Anywhere?
I am retired and was bored, so I thought why not go back to school (I was one of THOSE kids that loved school) and improve my computer skills through TR Leger in Kemptville. My instructor told me about other courses in GLA.
Did you have any struggles during your learning? If so, how did you overcome them?
Had a lot of health issues over the last couple of years. I am working through them and Linda keeps me on track. Ha.
What advice do you have for someone thinking about starting to improve their skills?
I think this is an excellent program. You have the option of online classes or work on your own time, at your own speed.
What is your greatest achievement? Or what accomplishment are you most proud of?
My greatest accomplishment, is the current Math course I am working on right now. I can not believe how much things have changed over the years. I love Math. I worked in banking for 40 years and thought I knew it all. Absolutely NOT. There is so much to learn and it’s wonderful.
What are your goals for the future?
Math. Math. And more Math. Maybe I’ll go for a degree. Who knows, there is no limit.
Is there anyone you would like to thank for supporting you on this journey?
I would like to thank Linda, my mentor for nominating me. She has always been there when I have questions and when I needed a little encouragement. I would also like to thank the instructors/teachers who put on the online courses. I have learned so much.
Is there anything else you would like to share with people about winning this award?
It feels great to know I can still learn and improve my schooling, even at this age. See ……….. You can teach an old dog new tricks!
Congratulations Judy! All the best in 2023!